IR Spherical Lenses

Research Electro-Optics Inc. (REO)

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For military applications, REO has introduced a range of infrared spherical lenses. These include forward-looking infrared imagers that also incorporate laser lines as well as other IR laser-based systems, such as those used in laser targeting and IR countermeasure applications.

The lenses are fabricated from a variety of substrate materials, including CaF₂, ZnS, ZnSe, Ge, Si and GaAs, enabling operation over the 3- to 14-µm spectral range. Component diameters are available from 0.25 to 10 in., and typical surface flatness for the optics is λ/10 at 633 nm.

Infrared optics of this type often are used in military systems in which environmental stability and coating durability are critical, and/or where multispectral operation is required. The company uses advanced plasma source (APS) coating technology to deliver highly densified thin films that exhibit high resistance to environmentally induced damage or performance degradation. APS technology also enables precise control over coating layer stress, resulting in good control over distortion on high-aspect-ratio parts. This enhances the stability of the physically thick films often required for multiwavelength operation in the IR.

The company can customize the lenses with a variety of features to facilitate assembly and mounting, especially in space-constrained systems. These features include holes, slots and polished mounting surfaces for O-ring contacting. Abrasive jet machining services are available to roughen selected areas of lens edges and provide a more compliant surface for adhesive bonding.

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Published: March 2011